Toronto Unveils 111 New Affordable Homes for Individuals with Disabilities

📅 Today 🏷️ City of Toronto Municipality

The City of Toronto, along with provincial and federal governments, has inaugurated the Frankfort Family Reena Residence, providing 111 supportive homes for individuals with disabilities.

On September 28, 2026, a significant milestone was achieved in Toronto with the official opening of the Frankfort Family Reena Residence. This initiative, a collaborative effort involving the City of Toronto, the Province of Ontario, and the Government of Canada, offers 111 affordable and supportive homes located at 165 Elm Ridge Dr. The development aims to assist people with developmental and physical disabilities, including seniors facing cognitive decline or mental health challenges, by providing a range of housing options from studio to four-bedroom apartments.
The Frankfort Family Reena Residence is designed not only to provide shelter but also to foster a sense of community and well-being among its residents. The building includes both indoor and outdoor amenity spaces, enhancing the living experience for tenants. Among the 111 units, there are 21 specifically designed to be accessible for individuals with significant physical mobility issues. This ensures that residents can afford to live there, as they will be required to pay no more than 30 percent of their income, or the shelter allowance portion of their income support benefit, towards rent.
As the owner and operator of the residence, Reena will offer 24/7 on-site support, alongside a variety of wraparound services tailored to the unique needs of each resident. This initiative not only aims to provide a safe and affordable living environment but also to empower tenants to maintain their independence, strengthen community ties, and enhance their overall quality of life. Reena has also established partnerships with various non-profit organizations to deliver residential programs within the facility.
The funding for the Frankfort Family Reena Residence was made possible through significant investments from all levels of government, coupled with collaboration from community organizations. The project received over $43.9 million in capital funding from the federal government through the third phase of the Rapid Housing Initiative. Additionally, the provincial government contributed $7.7 million, while the City of Toronto provided $8.1 million in financial incentives through the Rental Housing Supply Program, which included waivers for development charges, planning and building fees, and annual property tax exemptions for 99 years. Moreover, the Reena Foundation contributed $20 million, and Batay Reena added $15 million in equity to the project.
Mayor Olivia Chow praised the collaborative effort, stating, "The Frankfort Family Reena Residence demonstrates what can be achieved when all levels of government work together with non-profit partners toward a shared goal. Through the combined investments and commitment, 111 new affordable and supportive homes are now available for those in need."
Vince Gasparro, the Member of Parliament for Eglinton—Lawrence, also commented on the project, emphasizing its role in creating strong, inclusive, and affordable communities. He expressed his anticipation to meet the new residents in the future.
Ontario’s Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, Michael Parsa, highlighted the importance of supportive housing initiatives like this one, stating, "Our government is proud to invest in supportive housing initiatives that help connect people with the services and care they need."
Councillor Eglinton-Lawrence remarked on the architectural significance of the building and its role in fostering a close-knit community for its residents. Bryan Keshen, CEO of Reena, expressed gratitude to all the partners involved in making these supportive homes a reality, emphasizing the importance of a permanent place to call home for the new residents.
As Toronto continues to grow, this project underscores the city's commitment to addressing housing challenges and enhancing the quality of life for its diverse population. With a population of over three million, Toronto stands as a leading economic engine and one of the most livable cities globally, driven by substantial investments from its government and community stakeholders.

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